A shortage of table grapes are reported in many key markets leading to very high prices ahead of the crucial Christmas to New Year’s sales period. The earlier finish of the California, Spain and Italy seasons along with a delayed start to South Africa’s season is making for a challenging switch over to supply regions. Supermarkets in the UK paid more to airfreight grapes from Namibia and South Africa. Peru and Brazil have also seen increased demand, but logistical delays caused problems to reach the higher demand sooner. In North America, where prices are high too, retailers are transitioning from California storage grapes to Peruvian and Brazilian fruit.
